DOE Tour of Zero: Morton Road by Sunroc Builders
Photos
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Sunroc Builders constructed this 1,407-square-foot home in Lakeland, Florida, to the performance criteria of the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) program.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Energy- and water-saving measures incorporated in this affordable home are estimated to save homeowners $695 per year in energy costs and $30,031 over a 30-year mortgage.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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The double-pane windows have argon gas between the panes and low-emissivity coatings that help block heat transfer to keep heat inside in cold weather and outside in hot weather.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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The hip roof design adds hurricane resistance; the roofing is reflective ENERGY STAR-rated shingles that minimize solar heat gain in the attic.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Drought-tolerant plants and grasses require no permanent water sprinkler system.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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The home’s dishwasher, refrigerator, and water heater are ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, while all of the home’s lighting uses advanced LED technology and all of the fixtures are surface mounted. No recessed can lights means less opportunity for conditioned air to leak into the attic.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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A heat-pump water heater supplies hot water to the kitchen and bathrooms.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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An air-source heat pump is centrally located within the home’s conditioned space to efficiently heat and cool the home.
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The home has EPA WaterSense-rated fixtures for increased water conservation.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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All of the ductwork is located within the conditioned space of the home to prevent heat loss.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Ceiling fans help the home to feel more comfortable while using less air conditioning.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Hot water runs through an insulated circulation loop under the home’s concrete slab. This technique helps keep water hot when traveling from the hot water heater to the tap.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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The foam-filled concrete block walls are lined with foil-faced rigid foam insulation on the interior of the home. Furring strips are installed over the rigid foam and drywall is attached directly to the furring strips. All holes are sealed with tape or caulk.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Solid wood blocking was installed in the walls to accommodate future grab bars in both bathrooms.
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Minor modifications were made to a standard home in order to place the ducts inside the home’s conditioned space. Much of the ductwork will be hidden in dropped ceilings in arches that add architectural interest to the home.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
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Walls were insulated with professionally installed batt insulation.
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The high-efficiency windows are caulked to reduce air leaks around the window.
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A paint-on flashing is used around the windows and doors for seamless water protection.
Photo courtesy of Sunroc Builders
“In past homes I have had higher electric bills and … less comfort.”
"In past homes I have had higher electric bills and … less comfort. I am more than pleased with the monthly utilities – having seen bills as high as $400 a month in other homes. There is not a single thing I dislike about this home, and we love the quality of the construction."
– Homeowner
